Herakles
Herakles, the Greek hero, was known in ancient Rome as Hercules. He was one of the most popular and enduring figures in Roman mythology and art. Hercules was celebrated for his strength, courage, and many heroic deeds.
The Romans adopted the Greek myths about Hercules and adapted them to their own culture. For example, the Romans identified Hercules with their own god Jupiter, and they made him the son of Jupiter and Alcmena. The Romans also added new stories to the Hercules myth cycle, such as the story of Hercules killing the giant Cacus.
Hercules was a popular figure in Roman art. He was often depicted as a muscular and bearded man carrying a club. Hercules was also a popular subject for Roman mosaics and frescoes.
Hercules was also worshipped as a god in ancient Rome. He was the god of strength, courage, and athletics. Hercules was also worshipped as a protector of travelers and merchants.
Here are some of the ways in which the Romans adapted the Greek myth of Hercules:
- They identified Hercules with their own god Jupiter, and they made him the son of Jupiter and Alcmena.
- They added new stories to the Hercules myth cycle, such as the story of Hercules killing the giant Cacus.
- They depicted Hercules in Roman art as a muscular and bearded man carrying a club.
- They worshipped Hercules as a god of strength, courage, athletics, travelers, and merchants.
Hercules was one of the most popular and enduring figures in ancient Roman religion and mythology. He was a symbol of strength, courage, and heroism.